Friday, 12:53, 25/08/2023

Vietnam and Canada have witnessed significant advancements in their bilateral relations over the past five decades, according to Canadian Ambassador Shawn Perry Steil. In an interview commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations, Steil described the relationship as evolving in a remarkable way.

Key milestones in the partnership include the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973, the opening of embassies in both countries, and the formation of a comprehensive partnership during Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s official visit to Vietnam in 2017. These milestones have paved the way for further cooperation between Vietnam and Canada.

The early days of collaboration focused on development assistance, particularly poverty reduction. As Vietnam’s economy grew, Canada shifted its support towards small and women-led businesses. This strategic approach paid off, as Vietnam has now become Canada’s largest trade partner within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The ambassador highlighted the thriving partnership and mutually beneficial trade between the two countries.

In January 2022, the Canada-Vietnam Joint Economic Committee (JEC) was established, providing a platform for discussions on current and emerging trade issues. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), of which both Vietnam and Canada are signatories, has further stimulated trade. Vietnamese products such as seafood, fruits, furniture, shoes, clothing, and electronics have found a significant market in Canada.

Steil stressed that the foundation of the bilateral relationship lies in people-to-people exchanges, which have facilitated trade and educational cooperation between the two countries. Canada is also actively working with the Vietnamese Government and community-based organizations to ensure that everyone benefits from Vietnam’s rapid economic growth and that social inclusion remains a priority in the country’s development.

Additionally, Canada has provided support to Vietnam in clean transition and environmental protection, offering technical assistance and policy consultation to reduce plastic waste. Through its membership in the Just Energy Transition Partnership, Canada is assisting Vietnam in increasing renewable energy production, improving energy storage capacity, and enhancing transmission infrastructure. The diplomat expressed enthusiasm for supporting Vietnam in implementing carbon pricing initiatives as part of its environmental goals.

Looking towards the future, Steil expressed his belief that the next quantum leap in Vietnam-Canada relations will be focused on global collaboration. He emphasized the importance of leveraging the strong partnership between the two countries to contribute to a rules-based international order and uphold respect for international law. Moreover, he highlighted the potential for Vietnam and Canada to work together in fostering peace and stability in the ASEAN region and beyond.

Acknowledging Vietnam’s increasing role in the global arena, fueled by its economic growth and international integration, the ambassador commended Vietnam as a critical partner in Canada’s pursuit of a strategic partnership with ASEAN.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the major achievements in Vietnam-Canada relations?

Key milestones in Vietnam-Canada relations include the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1973, the opening of embassies in both countries, and the formation of a comprehensive partnership during Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s visit to Vietnam in 2017.

2. What areas of cooperation have been emphasized between Vietnam and Canada?

Historically, development assistance, poverty reduction, and support for small and women-led businesses were early focuses of cooperation. However, trade and economic cooperation, people-to-people exchanges, education, clean transition, and environmental protection have gained prominence in recent years.

3. How has trade between Vietnam and Canada developed?

Vietnam has become Canada’s largest trade partner within ASEAN, with Vietnamese products finding a significant market in Canada. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) has further boosted trade between the two countries.

4. What is Canada’s role in supporting Vietnam’s clean transition and environmental protection efforts?

Canada has been providing technical assistance and policy consultation to help Vietnam reduce plastic waste. Moreover, through the Just Energy Transition Partnership, Canada is assisting Vietnam in increasing renewable energy production, improving energy storage capacity, and enhancing transmission infrastructure.

5. What is the future focus of Vietnam-Canada relations?

The Canadian ambassador believes that the next quantum leap in Vietnam-Canada relations will be focused on global collaboration. The aim is to contribute to a rules-based international order, respect for international law, and fostering peace and stability in the ASEAN region and beyond.